Footwear brand Ugg Australia will expand its product offering, as it moves to increase market share in Australia.
The label, which is part of the True Alliance portfolio along with brands such as Ben Sherman, Lee, Coach and Lacoste, has confirmed it is boosting its men's range significantly and will also introduce a handbag range for the first time this year.
The augmented men's line, expanded on the back of strong growth during the first two seasons, will see a selection of new boots, slip-ons, lace-ups and sneakers added to the existing Ugg for Men collection from the summer 2012 range.
True Alliance brand manager Kylie Joyce said the development also follows the launch of the first ever Ugg for Men store in the US, which if successful, could see the brand follow suit in Australia.
“The demand was there to expand the range and the commitment to expanding the men’s line is also quite significant from a global directive,” she said.
“The first Ugg for Men store due to open next month in New York and Australia has always looked to the response of product in the US to determine the next move.”
In addition, Ugg Australia will also launch a handbag range for the local market, and has entered into a fresh footwear design collaboration, with three exclusive styles due to drop into Australian stores this month.
“Australia does not currently have a handbag line, and this introduction will be a new offering to our market, which should result in more depth and demand for the Ugg brand,” Joyce said.
The brand has also teamed with street artist Claudia Gold (Claw Money) for a capsule collection this month, building on past collaborations with the likes of LifeWithBird and Nicola Finetti.
Meanwhile, the capsule collection of handbags and small leather goods will be available in December this year. The product, priced from $249.95, will be exclusive to stockist Apres Coast in Melbourne and Sydney.
Daniela Aroche